African vegetables are a staple in West African cuisine, playing an essential part in Nigerian soups and stews. These leafy greens are not only affordable but also native to the West African region. While they are abundant in West Africa, obtaining them outside the region can be challenging, though frozen versions are often available.
This article explores various Igbo vegetables and their English names, providing a comprehensive guide for those interested in Nigerian cuisine and Igbo language.
Common Igbo Vegetables and Their English Names
Here's a list of some common vegetables with their Igbo and English names:
- Ugwu/Ugu (Igbo): Pumpkin Leaf
- Efo Gbure (Yoruba): Water Leaf
- Onugbu/Olugbu (Igbo): Bitter Leaf
- Efo Shoko, Shokoyokoto: Quail Grass (Celosia Argentea), Lagos Spinach
- Jatropha Tanjorensis: Chaya Leaf (Miracle Leaf, Hospital Too far)
- Gnetum Africanum: Wild Spinach, Afang (Ibibio), Okazi/Ukazi (Igbo)
- Efo Tete, Tete Eleegun: African Spinach (Amaranthus hybridus)
- Ewedu(Yoruba), Kerenkere (Igbo), Rama Ayoyo (Hausa): Jute Leaves
- Gongronema latifolium: Bushbuck Leaves
Detailed Look at Some Key Vegetables
Pumpkin Leaf (Ugwu/Ugu)
The leaves and young shoots of the “ugu” vegetable are frequently eaten as a potherb and cooked in soups. Ugu is believed to be the most eaten vegetable among the Ibo speaking people. There are several purported nutrition and health benefits of Ugu, substantial research is lacking.
Water Leaf (Efo Gbure)
As the name implies, the waterleaf vegetable is extremely abundant during the rainy season. Ironically, the waterleaf plant is scientifically classified as a weed. The plant is very easily propagated by cuttings and by seeds; it has a quick growing and short life cycle. The vegetable is eaten cooked, in salads and in soups. The leaves are succulent with high water content.
Read also: The Global Impact of Okra
Bitter Leaf (Onugbu/Olugbu)
The bitter leaf is a very important vegetable for most Nigerians, it can be purchased in many markets throughout the year and it’s planted commonly in home gardens. Wherever it grows, it flourishes. There are several species; some large, leafy and deep green leaves, while some have comparatively smaller leaves. This vegetable is a perennial herb.
This vegetable is quite bitter and you have to wash it thoroughly before enjoying it.
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Wild Spinach (Afang/Okazi)
Wild Spinach is a leafy vegetable known as Gnetum Africanum. Wild Spinach is also known as Afang leaves (Ibibio) and Okazi/Ukazi (Igbo). It has a slightly bitter taste when used in dishes.
This vegetable is very popular among the ethnic peoples of southern and southeastern Nigeria. The Efik and Ibibio peoples call it ‘afang’ while the Igbo’s call it "okazi". Afang is a significant source of protein, carbohydrates, essential amino acids (non essential amino acids and mineral constituents i.e.
Scent Leaf
Scent leaf is a delicious vegetable known for its aromatic smell and flavor. Scent leaf is often used to prepare soups and stews like Black soup and Banga soup. These leaves are known locally in Nigeria as Ugwu/Ugu(Igbo), Ewe Elegede(Yoruba), Ikong-Ubong(Efik/Ibibio), and Kabewa(Hausa).
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Other Vegetables and Herbs in Igbo
Here is a table with additional vegetables and herbs, along with their Igbo names and some notes:
| English Name | Igbo Name | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Water Yam | Abana/Mbana | |
| Ginger | Aja-aji | |
| Bitter Kola | Aki Ilu | |
| Cowpea | Akidi/Agwa | |
| Oak tree | Achi | |
| Coco yam | Ede | |
| Moringa | Efo-Igbo | |
| Melon | Egwusi | |
| Lemon grass | Nche awula | |
| Scent Leaf | Nchuanwu | |
| Sweet Potatoes | Nduku | |
| Plantain | Ojoko or Jioko | |
| Maize | Oka | |
| Alligator Pepper | Ose-Oji | |
| Guinea Pepper or Black Pepper | Uziza | |
| Walnut | Ukpa | |
| Garlic | Yabasi Hausa |
Understanding these names can greatly enhance your ability to navigate local markets and prepare authentic Igbo dishes. Whether you are a language enthusiast or a culinary explorer, this guide provides a valuable resource for connecting with Igbo culture through its rich variety of vegetables.
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